E-Boats to Enhance Public Transport in Srinagar: Stakeholders Express Concerns Over Lack of Consultation

Rafiq Bhat 

Srinagar, Feb 16 : Under the Srinagar Smart City initiative, e-Boats are set to debut on the picturesque waters of Jhelum and Dal Lake, promising improved public transportation.

The tendering process is currently underway for this endeavor, with plans to deploy 32 boats on Dal Lake and Jhelum River. Additionally, 20 ghats have been constructed along the routes to facilitate passenger embarkation and disembarkation.

However, concerns have arisen among stakeholders who claim they have not been adequately consulted by Smart City officials. Houseboat owners, in particular, fear potential damage to their aging structures from the waves generated by the e-Boats.

They emphasize the need for their voices to be heard in the planning and implementation of such projects to ensure their livelihoods and cultural heritage are protected.

Houseboat owners said that while they view this initiative as a welcoming step, they are demanding rehabilitation before surrendering their licenses.